MENU
May 12, 2025
If you're officiating high school basketball in Florida—or looking to get started—knowing the rules isn’t optional. It’s what keeps the game fair, fast, and under control. Florida follows the NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations) rules, but there are a few things unique to how we do things here, especially with how games are assigned and managed across different districts.
Whether you're just getting certified or you've been working games for years, this 2025 guide breaks down what Florida high school basketball referees need to know—and how Primary Coverage Officiating can help you stay ready, confident, and connected all season long.
All Florida high school basketball games operate under the NFHS rulebook, which is updated every year. This rulebook governs everything from the number of team fouls to uniform requirements.
At the state level, officials register through the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA), which follows the national rules while also setting expectations for conduct, sportsmanship, and certification standards.
Here are some core areas you’ll be expected to enforce consistently:
NFHS traveling rules differ from NBA or NCAA. High school players often get confused by what’s legal on the catch—officials must call it tight and consistent.
If a player is being closely guarded (within six feet), they have five seconds to make a move or pass. This rule is enforced both when the ball is held and when dribbled (in some cases), so know when the count resets.
Florida emphasizes sportsmanship and professionalism. Officials should not hesitate to issue a technical foul for repeated dissent, coaching out of the box, or improper behavior from the bench.
Only a player on the court or the head coach can request a timeout. Knowing when a timeout is allowed—and properly signaling it—is an expectation.
The NFHS rolls out changes every year. In Florida, officials will need to review and apply the 2025 updates, which may include:
Primary Coverage Officiating will walk you through everything that’s new during preseason meetings and mid-season refreshers. You won’t be guessing—just enforcing.
Referees working FHSAA games in Florida are expected to be professionally dressed:
Primary Coverage Officiating will help new officials get geared up and guide returning officials through any updates or policy changes.
To work high school basketball in Florida, you’ll need to:
It sounds like a lot, but Primary Coverage Officiating handles all of this with you. We'll help with registration, prep you for exams, and connect you with the right games based on your experience level.
When you're part of Primary Coverage Officiating, you're not just handed games—you’re trained, supported, and surrounded by a community of officials who want you to succeed.
Whether you're brand new or looking to step up to varsity or playoff-level work, we're here to help you get certified, stay rule-sharp, and get the assignments you want.
Reach out now to get started with the 2025 season. We’re ready when you are.
